Magic Johnson isn’t a huge believer in the Lakers’ newest rookie sensation. Speaking on Jimmy Kimmel Live this week, the Lakers legend gave his honest review of Bronny James and explained why he should be looking for as much time in the G-League this season as possible.
“If I’m Bronny, I would tell my dad to just let me play in the G League all season so that I can develop.”
Magic Johnson was among the first to wish Bronny well after being drafted by the Lakers this summer. As a legend of the city and an All-Time great NBA athlete, Magic has a lot of sway within the organization and his word is highly respected by the fans and the team.
As a 5x champion, 3x MVP, and first-ballot Hall of Famer, Johnson knows more than most about what it takes to succeed at the highest level of the game and he’s one who calls it like he sees it.
Unfortunately for Bronny, it doesn’t seem like Magic is all that sold on his NBA potential. With averages of 4.8 points and 2.8 rebounds per game at USC, James had a relatively modest showing in college and he didn’t have the type of signature moment you’d expect from someone who was so hyped up before the draft.
Despite the low numbers, Bronny was able to work his way to the Lakers and he’s set to make history next season as the first father/son duo in NBA history. But now that he’s in the league, what can we expect from James in his very first season?
It’s no secret that Bronny and his dad have already been hard at work in the gym this summer and new coach JJ Redick has some extensive plans to maximize Bronny’s game. With this new system and a place beside his dad, it’s possible that Bronny could exceed expectations this season and carve out a consistent place in the Lakers’ rotation.
But from what we’ve seen in college and the Summer League, it might be better for Bronny to take it slow with his development. At just 19 years old and 6’2″, it will take time for Bronny to adjust to the NBA landscape and a stint with the South Bay Lakers could help expedite the process.
At the very least, it will put Bronny in a position to find his footing in a pressure-free environment, away from the shadow of his dad.
Ultimately, the decision falls on LeBron himself about what Bronny’s rookie season will look like. They will surely spend some time together on the court this season (if even just to make history), but if James makes the call, Bronny could soon be playing in the G-League, where he’ll have a much easier time adapting to the professional game.
Regardless of what happens in this campaign, Bronny will have many chances to make a name for himself. After signing a 4-year, $7.9 million contract this summer, he’s here for the long haul and the Lakers are committing to doing everything in their power to ensure his success.
